Who painted Rama and Sita enthroned (recto), from a Kalighat album?

Rama and Sita enthroned (recto), from a Kalighat album was painted by Unknown in 1890.

Where can I see Rama and Sita enthroned (recto), from a Kalighat album?

Rama and Sita enthroned (recto), from a Kalighat album is held by Cleveland Museum of Art.

What movement is Rama and Sita enthroned (recto), from a Kalighat album?

Rama and Sita enthroned (recto), from a Kalighat album is associated with Bengal School.

Artwork

Rama and Sita enthroned (recto), from a Kalighat album

Unknown , 1890

Rama and Sita enthroned (recto), from a Kalighat album is an unspecified painting by the Bengal School artist Unknown. It dates from 1890 and is held in the collection of the Cleveland Museum of Art. This painting depicts Rama and Sita enthroned, a scene from Hindu mythology.

Accession no.: 2003.134.a
Credit line: Gift of William E. Ward in memory of his wife, Evelyn Svec Ward

About this work

Overview

This painting depicts Rama and Sita enthroned, a scene from Hindu mythology. It is part of a Kalighat album, a type of devotional artwork sold to pilgrims visiting the Kalighat temple in Kolkata.

Subject & Meaning

The image shows Rama, the king, and his wife Sita, seated on a throne. Rama holds a bow and arrow, while attendants, including his brother Lakshmana and the monkey general Hanuman, surround them with symbols of royalty.

Technique & Style

The painting is characterized by bold lines, flat colors, and a lack of shading, resulting in clear, graphic shapes. The style is typical of Kalighat art, which was produced quickly for pilgrims to take home as souvenirs and devotional objects.

History & Provenance

The painting was sold outside the Kalighat temple in Kolkata, a major Hindu pilgrimage site. It was created as a commemorative item for devotees to adorn their domestic altars.